Eclectic Herbal Wisdom
Hosted by two experienced herbal educators and storytellers — Christine Alstat, owner of Eclectic Herb, and Mel Mutterspaugh, founder of The Herbalist’s Path and Lead Herbal Educator at Eclectic Herb, this show explores the herbs we love, how they work, and the deeper connection between people and plants.
Each episode features monthly herb spotlights, zodiac-themed herbal insights, seasonal wellness support, wildcrafting stories from the Pacific Northwest, and conversations shaped by decades of experience in the herbal world.
Rooted in Eclectic Herb’s 40-year legacy and grounded in the traditions of the Eclectic Physicians, this podcast is perfect for herbalists, plant lovers, and anyone wanting to live closer to nature.
Eclectic Herbal Wisdom
Herbs for Insomnia: Mental Health, Joy & Detox with Dr. Orna
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Sleep is not optional. It's foundational.
In this episode of Eclectic Herbal Wisdom, we're joined by Dr. Orna Izakson for a grounded conversation about insomnia, mental health, nervous system herbs, and why real healing often looks much simpler than the latest wellness trend.
We talk about Skullcap, Passionflower, and Valerian, including when they shine and when they don't. We also unpack detox myths, why extreme cleanses often backfire, and how gentle daily rhythms support the body's innate pathways far better than aggressive protocols.
What You'll Learn:
- Why CBT-I is the gold standard for chronic insomnia
- How herbs support sleep without overriding the nervous system
- When Skullcap is appropriate, including its use for seizure support
- Why Valerian causes paradoxical reactions in some people
- Detox demystified and why less is often more
- Milk Thistle: when robust liver support is actually needed
- Hawthorn as a heart and nervous system ally for challenging times
Connect With Dr. Orna Izakson, ND, RH(AHG) here
Naturopathic physician, registered herbalist, and educator specializing in mental health, sleep, and integrative care Instagram: @dr.orna, or find her stunning plant pics at @gardenmedicine
Herbs Mentioned:
- Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
- Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
- Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)
- Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
We'd love to hear from you!
What herbs have supported your sleep or mental health?
Have you experienced a paradoxical reaction to valerian or another herb?
Share your stories with us on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb
Full show notes: eclecticherb.com/podcast/herbs-mental-health-dr-orna-izakson
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Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there.
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